Team Leader at Empire JointStar in Washington, DC

Job Title: Team Leader Pay: $21.50 per hour + Mystery Shopper Bonus + Tips About the Company: We’re proud makers of delicious food, organic coffee and big ideas across 750+ shops in 20+ countries. Whether you’re making our guests’ days with the perfect latte or leading your team to success, roles in Pret shops come with huge opportunities for growth. Together, we’re doing the right thing and growing fast – it’s an exciting team to hop on board! About the Role: At Pret, Team Leaders are the backbone of our shops. You're the person who makes everything work, coaching your team, keeping standards high, and creating the kind of energy that makes both guests and team members want to come back. This is your first step into a leadership role. If you can run a good shift, you can eventually run a good shop. Whether you're working toward managing your own business one day or becoming an entrepreneur, this is where you'll learn how to lead people, drive sales, manage costs, and make decisions that directly impact the bottom line. Many of our General Managers and multi-unit leaders started right here as Team Leaders. As a Team Leader, you'll run shifts, lead by example, and help your team grow. You'll ensure the shop is running smoothly during peak rushes and quiet moments alike. You'll solve problems on the spot, champion Pret's values, and be the go-to person your team can count on. This isn't just about managing tasks, it's about building a team culture where people do their best work and guests feel the Pret difference. If you're ready to step up, take ownership, and develop the skills to run your own business someday, we want you on our leadership team. Key Responsibilities Leading the Team: ·
Run shifts confidently and ensuring smooth operations from open to close ·
Coach and train Team Members on food prep, barista skills, guest service, and Pret standards ·
Give real-time feedback to help team members improve and grow ·
Conduct team pre-shifts to keep everyone aligned on daily goals and priorities ·
Create a positive, energized environment where people want to work hard ·
Address team concerns and communicate with the Manager about performance or development needs Delivering Pret Standards: ·
Keep retail langers restocked and looking picture perfect, guests should always see a full, beautiful display ·
Ensure all food and drinks are prepared to Pret's quality standards throughout your shift ·
Maintain proper food temperatures, freshness, and availability of all menu items ·
Oversee hot food production, barista station, and food prep areas ·
Monitor that all stations are set up correctly and stocked appropriately ·
Deliver excellent guest service and coach your team to do the same ·
Serve Barista Prepared Drinks within the 60-second standard and ensure your team does too ·
Execute new product launches and promotions on time Keeping the Shop Safe & Clean: ·
Ensure all health & safety and food safety standards are followed throughout your shift ·
Complete required safety checks, temperature logs, and equipment tests ·
Keep the shop clean, organized, and ready for inspections at all times ·
Address any safety or cleanliness concerns immediately ·
Ensure the shop looks great through the guest’s eyes Managing Shop Operations: ·
Open or close the shop following Pret procedures ·
Monitor equipment and report maintenance issues to your Manager ·
Help manage waste and stock levels for food, drinks, and supplies ·
Handle guest concerns professionally and escalate when needed ·
Complete administrative tasks like scheduling support, inventory checks, and shift reports Supporting Shop Success: ·
Work closely with Assistant Managers and the General Manager to hit shop goals ·
Help drive sales through great service, product knowledge, and team engagement ·
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency or guest experience ·
Attend leadership meetings and training courses ·
Be a role model for Pret's values Requirements · 1+ years of supervisory experience or equivalent leadership experience in restaurant, retail, or hospitality environments · Experience supporting operational performance and service standards in a fast paced and high volume settings · Strong communication and problem-solving skills · NYC Food Handlers Card · Available to work in person +30 hours · Led a shift of greater than 5 employees · Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects up to 50 pounds; bend, reach overhead, squat, kneel, and go up and down stairs as needed; safely maneuver through tight or compact spaces; operate restaurant equipment and handle tools such as tongs, pots, and pans with dexterity; work in environments ranging from hot to cold, including near open flames and occasional outdoor conditions; maintain close, distance, and peripheral vision; communicate continuously with team members; and work in a constant state of alertness while maintaining safe operations Benefits: · Weekly Mystery Shopper bonus plan (Up to an extra $1.00 per hour) · Tips when Good Service is Provided · Paid Time Off · Free breakfast and lunch when working – including generous discounts when you’re not · Health, Dental and Vision Benefits (Available for Full-Time Employees) · 401K retirement plan (Available for Full-Time Employees) · Child Bonding Leave · The Pret Academy, which supports the training and development for our wonderful people · A friendly, fun, and fast paced environment with passionate teams to work with · Transit program, FSA and HSAs available · Pet Insurance